In signing House Bill 136, Gov. Gary Herbert sent a message that Utah serves to protect and uphold the value and importance of human life.
The 18-week abortion law now stands as one of the most restrictive in the United States and will most certainly cost Utah several million taxpayer dollars in legal fees when challenged in court. A pretty expensive message to send, in my opinion, but perhaps a small price to pay given the larger symbolic significance.
However, if human life is so deeply valued by our legislative representatives, I am extremely confused by the missed opportunities to reinforce this message by supporting other legislation that serve to protect Utahns such as the expansion of Medicaid and the banning of harmful, if not lethal, conversion therapy practices.
Taxpayers approved Medicaid expansion and the conversion therapy bill initially had support from Herbert. Yet what ultimately differentiated these protections from those that passed? These mixed messages are deeply concerning and very harmful. I question if our representatives truly believe in giving all Utahns the opportunity to live healthy and meaningful lives, or if opportunity is preserved just for those deemed worthy enough to receive support by our legislative body.
Sarah Shea, Salt Lake City